White House counselor Kellyanne Conway says a woman accusing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her when they were in high school "should testify under oath and she should do it on Capitol Hill."

Our panel of 100 influential leaders discusses the most important issues affecting you.

Nan Rich, member, Broward County commission

Looking ahead:Why the shameful rush by the Senate Judiciary Committee to confirm Judge Kavanaugh rather than giving Dr. Blasey Ford the fair and respectful treatment she deserves – an independent investigation before holding a hyperpartisan hearing. The Senate, controlled by Republican men, seem to have already made up their minds. And in a televised hearing, they will be grandstanding and playing to their constituents. The committee will try to keep Dr. Blasey Ford in her place, just as it did Anita Hill 27 years ago. If they confirm Kavanaugh in this manner, there will certainly be a backlash in November!

Debbie Wasserman Schultz, member, U.S. House of Representatives

Last week: The allegations of sexual assault against Brett Kavanaugh are serious and credible. Pushing through a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court would be irresponsible. Women deserve to be heard and rushing this nomination would be an effort to silence victims across this nation. Sadly, Republican Senators and their allies in the right-wing media have already begun a disgusting smear campaign targeting Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. She deserves better - and so do the American people. We have every right to demand that our next Supreme Court justice is a person of honesty who knows the difference between right and wrong.

George Moraitis, chairman, Broward Republican Executive Committee

Last week: The focus of Judge Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings have shifted away from his qualifications and towards unfounded character attacks. As part of the process for confirming Supreme Court Justices, the Senate has the responsibility to review and vet a candidate’s qualifications. Kavanaugh is a graduate of Yale Law School, served as counsel to the White House, clerked for Justice Kennedy, and served twelve years as a judge on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. Rather than make this a partisan issue, the Senate has a duty to give this qualified nominee a fair hearing and vote on his merits.

Dr. Michael Dennis, chair, FAU Schmidt College of Medicine

Last week: Based on nonpartisan calculations released this week, POTUS-initiated trade war tariffs will produce many American casualties. In the automobile industry alone the anticipated 25 percent tax on Chinese imports will increase costs to the US consumer. Higher automotive parts prices increase expenses for maintenance and repair. An estimated 715,000 jobs will be lost and a drop in Gross Domestic Product of $59 billion. The tariff will likely elevate the cost of new vehicles by an average $4400! And this does not even take into account the negative effects of China’s retaliatory tariffs on our products. It’s Making America Irate Again.

Looking ahead:Aren’t politicians intriguing? Although Senator Feinstein somehow unknowingly hired a Chinese spy as her assistant and chauffeur for twenty years, she suddenly managed to recall weeks ago receiving information from an anonymous, unidentified woman who claimed that Kavanaugh had sexually harassed her 36 years ago. And one must question conservatives’ motivation in slyly withholding his pertinent documents – attempting to tilt the Supreme Court in their favor while still guaranteed a Senate majority. Could one reason be that he has strongly supported protection of the presidency? When the accused and accuser testify, the environment will reflect the lack of political integrity.

Robert Weinroth, former deputy mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: The slow motion disaster in the Carolinas could have been South Florida. There are clearly lessons to be learned from Hurricane Florence. The first is heed the warnings of forecasters who have become remarkably accurate. When it's time to evacuate, remaining behind endangers you and those who must rescue you and your family. The second is secure flood insurance. Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. The premiums for protection are minimal outside of flood zones. Pictures from Houston, New Orleans and now, Wilmington are reminders that even after hurricane winds abate flooding is a significant destructive force.

Looking ahead:One of the few unambiguous proposals approved by the Constitution Revision Commission for November’s ballot was Amendment 4, entitled the Voting Rights Restoration Amendment. If approved by 60 percent of the voters in November, most felons (excluding those convicted of murder or a felony sex crime) will have their right to vote reinstated after completing all terms of their sentence including parole or probation. Recidivism is the tendency of convicted criminals to be sent back to prison. Of the 992 felons granted restoration of their civil rights over the past two years, only one was convicted of a new felony.

Last week: This week Yom Kippur was celebrated at the culmination of the Jewish new year observance. The Day of Atonement is an example of how we accept responsibility and seek forgiveness for wrongs committed. As a religious concept we may learn from the the Jewish tradition that reaching out to God or society is not enough - we must seek redress by seeking forgiveness from the victims. The concept of forgiveness has also become increasingly important in secular society with the development of the concept of justice as reconciliation rather than justice as fairness, to heal civil society after violent conflict.

Looking ahead:In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence’s torrential downpours and flooding in the Carolinas, amidst the soppy building materials, living islands of fire ants, floating sewage and debris, and lack of essentials, survivors find a way to carry on. Recovery continues long after the stories in the media subside. The return to normalcy may be a long haul for many - like our fellow citizens who endured last years havoc in Puerto Rico and continue to deal with the loss and the challenges ahead - our neighbors on the mainland need to be remembered and provided assistance well into the year ahead.

Tim Lonergan, president, Broward League of Cities; Oakland Park mayor

Looking ahead:In addition to voting for candidates on the November ballot, residents will have the opportunity to decide on a list of proposed changes to the Florida Constitution, Broward County’s Charter and, in some cities, your own city charter. Now is the time to check or update your voting status at www.browardsoe.org, and start reviewing the referendum questions. Proposed amendments to the Florida Constitution can be found at www.floridaleagueofcities.com and Broward County’s Charter questions at www.Broward.org/charter. Referendum questions are available on your city’s website. Learn about the proposed changes, their pros and cons, and be prepared to make an educated vote.

Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., CEO, Baptist Health Medical Group

Last week: A phenomenon that sent Joy Behar and Meryl Streep to the hospital has a group of British physicians seeking warning labels on avocados. Instances of “avocado hand” steadily begin to appear in emergency rooms and urgent care centers over the summer, as people start slicing the pitted, thick-skinned fruit. Their knives slip on the pit and cause lacerations to the hand, which then need stitches. Avocados, which contain heart-healthy mono-unsaturated fat, are a plentiful super fruit this time of year. But heed this warning: Google or YouTube how to safely slice them to avoid the need for stitches.

Tim Ryan, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: The Broward County Commission marked this week as Train Safety Awareness Week in connection with a national effort focusing attention on accidental deaths and suicides that occur on train tracks. In 2017, Florida had the dubious distinction of ranking second in the nation for train fatalities. To reduce those numbers Tri-Rail and its partners have developed a program to educate the public on train safety and encourage those considering suicide to seek help. Recognizing South Florida trains are an important mode of transporting goods and people, we must do everything possible to reduce rail fatalities.

Looking ahead:Governor Scott’s term ends in January, the day before three seats on the Florida Supreme Court become vacant due to mandatory retirements. Even though he will no longer be in office, the Governor intends to fill these vacancies and has asked for a list of candidates from the Judicial Nominating Commission. The outgoing Governor’s authority to appoint new justices will be challenged as an unconstitutional attempt to deprive the next Governor of the opportunity to choose who serves on the Court. Hopefully the Supreme Court will find the Florida Constitution clearly directs the new Governor to fill these Court vacancies.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Last week: Some disturbing incidents occurred this past week which I’d like to address. For young people who might be tempted to make a threat against their school or think it’s a joke in doing so, it’s not going to end well for you. This must be understood. Reality has shown us that violence does occur in schools throughout the country, so law enforcement has an obligation to follow through on every threat. Parents, talk to your children to ensure they understand the seriousness and consequences of such threats. One fake threat is one too many.

Looking ahead:More action is finally being taken to address our state’s red tide problems. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will be providing another $4 million towards helping local communities suffering from red tide and the massive algae outbreak which has massively killed our sea life. This raises the spending for the water crisis to $13 million. Another $1.2 million is going towards badly needed research. For those counties, Pinellas, Manatee, Collier, Sarasota, Lee and Martin, this is good news but it’s late in coming. Let’s get this under control and find ways so it won’t occur again.

Paul Castronovo, host, Paul Castronovo Show on Big 105.9

Last week: Last week, an assistant state attorney was arrested for alleged shoplifting, after putting cosmetics in her purse and walking out of Publix. Then it gets weird. She makes $108 grand a year, spent over $120.00 in groceries, bought lottery tickets, then walks out with $42 worth of lipstick? And would she do that in front of her teenage daughter? Her lawyer claims that she simply forgot that she put the items in her purse. Seems innocent enough, but then why weren’t the rest of her grocery items in the purse too? Have you ever tried to put a cantaloupe in your handbag?

Looking ahead:Did you hear about all the pot that washed up on shore in Volusia County last week? People thought it was Christmas! One lady, who was photographed in a bikini grabbing handfuls of the waterlogged weed, is actually being sought after by the cops. You do realize that this stuff is legal in many parts of our country. Look at it this way; these people are going to smoke it anyway. This time they didn’t have to go through a dealer, and helped clean up the beaches. Do you really think we should spend tax dollars to track her down?

Last week: Broward Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie is not happy with the person overseeing the struggling $800 million bond program so he promoted a new director and raised his $127,000 salary to $139,000. Meanwhile, the employee who hasn't handled the bond project well, will keep his $196,000 salary and assume new duties. School officials also attempted to hire three new public relations staffers - at six-figure salaries each - to improve the district's image. The school board balked at the request until yet another new six-figure salary director could be hired to determine the needs. Remarkable.

Marty Kiar, property appraiser, Broward County

Last week: A 2014 Florida law banned early voting on college campuses. The Sun Sentinel reported that U.S. District Judge Walker recently ruled this ban was unconstitutional and discriminatory as it prevented young voters the opportunity to vote early where they work, study and live. Judge Walker ordered college campuses be open for early voting. As a result of this ruling, Broward will have an early voting site at NSU and many college campuses throughout Florida will now have early voting sites. With over 830,000 students enrolled in our colleges, this ruling allows our youngest voters the opportunity to vote early.

Ina Lee, owner, Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

Last week: The accusation by Christine Blasey Ford, now a college professor, of attempted rape by Supreme Court Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh while in high school is a serious matter when determining whether someone should serve on the highest court of the land. This will be reviewed by an all-male committee. That in itself embodies the inequity women still face every day. Whether the accusation is true or false, that she is now receiving death threats is inexcusable.

Looking ahead:The announcement of Mike Jackson's transitioning from CEO and chairman of AutoNation, the nation's largest auto retailer, to executive chairman heralds a new era for this company so important to South Florida. He did an exceptional job taking over the reigns from founder H. Wayne Huizenga. Mr. Jackson is now chairman of the Federal Reserve Board of Atlanta and has recently become co-chair of the homeless initiative in Broward. A national search is underway for a new CEO.

Michael Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Last week: Previously, I wrote about concerns regarding e-cigarettes use by students. Was this the first step to developing life-long nicotine addiction and customers? Marketed initially as a “smoking cessation” device, they added “flavored” varieties. But the chemicals were unregulated and not entirely known. Then big tobacco jumped in the market. Now the EPA, declaring an “epidemic,” finally acknowledged the foreseeable: youth addiction. Confirming prior trends, a recent survey found 11% of 12th graders, 8.2% of 10th graders and 3.5% percent of eighth graders vape. Once again, regulators failed to act to prevent a foreseeable health crisis. What will be the consequences?

Looking ahead:Monday is National Voters Registration Day! High schools, colleges and all of us should be focused on making sure those eligible register. The right to vote for women and people of color was hard fought, with protests, loss of life, limb and liberty, and court battles. Generations risked their lives on battlefields and the high seas to protect this right. While we can vote by mail, at early voting or on election day, sadly and embarrassingly less than half vote in non-presidential general elections. The deadline to register is October 9, 2018. Encourage registration and voting. It’s our duty.

Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: It was recently reported that Florida has set another record in tourism by welcoming the highest number of visitors during any six months in the state’s history, with 65.5 million visitors. It is estimated that 28.3 million domestic visitors, 2.6 million overseas visitors and 933,000 Canadians came to Florida in the second quarter of 2018. This is great news for our local economy, as Florida’s tourism industry provides for millions of jobs for residents throughout our state. Let’s continue to make Florida the number one vacation destination in the world for millions of travelers.

Looking ahead:The Florida Constitution Revision Commission has placed several constitutional amendments on this year’s ballot. I am in support of Amendment 2: Limitations on Property Tax Assessments, Amendment 6: Marsy’s Law, and Amendment 13: Greyhound Racing Ban. Amendment 2 will permanently cap non-homestead property taxes and will protect renters, businesses and other property owners. Amendment 6 will add specific rights for victims of crime and Amendment 13 will ban greyhound racing in Florida. I encourage voters to research all issues on this year’s ballot before going to the polls on November 6.

Sheldon Harr, founding rabbi emeritus, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Looking ahead:From now until November 6, the conversation piece either to be engaged in or to be avoided will be politics. Once again, on the national level, Florida presents two critical races reflecting the diametrically opposite perspectives of the candidates from each party. This along with races in Nevada, Arizona, Missouri and the "rust belt" States make for interesting times. Further, our local elections cannot be disregarded. As citizens, it's our responsibility to follow the moral dictates and the democratic principals of our nation. Our participation makes a difference. Study the stated positions of the candidates, and then VOTE.

Anne Gannon, tax collector, Palm Beach County

Looking ahead:The introduction of an amended tourist development ordinance dealing with short term rentals in Palm Beach County. This ordinance will give us additional tools in the collection and regulation of bed tax. Collection of the 6% bed tax and 7% sales tax on short term rentals is not a new issue but has been required by since 1992. This tax is charged and paid by the renter of the property. County ordinance requires the tax to be remitted to the Tax Collector and the Department of Revenue monthly.

Last week: China has agreed to a $5 billion credit line for cash-strapped Venezuela, where it’s been a key lender since 2008, providing funds for infrastructure and oil projects and lending an estimated $70 million – mostly paid back in oil. This is a sure way for China to gain a foothold in Latin America, but Venezuela might be taking on an unsustainable debt, forcing it to be over reliant on China in the future, condemning it to strategic subservience. Is this the new version of colonialism or just suspicion about China’s true intentions as it takes its place as a world power?

Looking ahead:The first heartbreaking steps for home and property owners in the Carolinas will be in the spotlight this coming week, with many having to deal with their devastated properties. Families will return to a sodden heap of decay – a balance sheet liability. Many will have to gut the property and haul everything out and will depend on volunteers and family to get the job done, since contractors will be in short supply. Still many more, will have to do it themselves and with that is the realization that their lives have changed and may never be the same again.

Last week: Last year, directly after Hurricane Irma, a dozen people died in a nursing home in Hollywood, Florida due to power outages for three days where temperatures peaked to 99 degrees. After the incident occurred, lawmakers mandated that all nursing homes and assisted-living facilities have permanent generators to prevent a similar situation from occurring in the future. These generators must last for 96 hours and be able to keep indoor temperatures controlled by not reaching higher than 81 degrees. All facilities that did not reach the June 1, 2018 deadline, received a seven-month extension.

Looking ahead:This year South Florida has seen more iguanas than ever before, especially in our backyards. These reptiles can lay up to seventy eggs at once. State wildlife officers are reaching out to communities to share helpful tips on how to keep our properties safe from iguanas. Some of these tips include, setting up traps, eliminating piles of rocks, removing debris and eliminating non-citrus fruit trees. Traps should only be placed in shaded areas near trees, debris and fences, as those are the locations iguanas enjoy the most.

Howard Simon, executive director, ACLU of Florida

Last week: Florida’s water crisis: Red Tide to the west, toxic Algae-Bloom to the east. This is more than unsightliness, foul smelling water, and damage to our tourist-based economy. Officials seem to ignore evidence about the potential link between the neurotoxins in the algae blooms and serious medical problems such as ALS and liver cancer. Years from now, when breathing the air around an algae bloom or contact with the dangerously polluted water produces serious disease and cuts life short, will we remember the officials who had the responsibility but failed to protect the safety and health of the people of Florida?

Looking ahead:Voting by mail is more convenient and Floridians are using it. In 2016, almost 2.7 million Floridians mailed in their ballots. But largely due to missing or mis-matched signatures, votes by mail are rejected at higher rates than votes cast in person during early voting or on Election Day. Those who vote by mail need to take steps to ensure that their vote counts. And state and county election officials need to make the process for curing a signature problem more uniform statewide. The likelihood of your vote being counted should not depend on the county in which you live.

Kathleen Cannon, president, United Way of Broward County

Last week: At a time when adults are increasingly divided over many issues, it’s important to take note that students in the Broward County public schools are observing “Choose Peace/Stop Violence Week” September 17-21. Let’s all follow their example and spread messages of peace, create environments that are free from bullying and violence, and promote tolerance and positive change – in our schools, our workplaces and our public spaces, in person and online. And next week, “Say Hello Week,” let’s remember MSD and take time to include those who feel excluded. Our future depends on the actions we take today.

Christine Hunschofsky, mayor, Parkland

Last week: On September 20, I joined women mayors from all over the country and from different political backgrounds for the Women Mayors of America White House Conference. We met with various policy advisors to share with them the challenges that local governments face and what effects policies such as infrastructure and disaster recovery funding have on our residents. Building relationships and sharing our local stories can impact decision makers. No matter our political backgrounds or personal partisan beliefs, these mayors understood the need to work collaboratively with policy-makers at every level to make a positive impact in our communities.

Peter Moore, president, Chen Moore and Associates

Last week: It is truly sad that the State is being impacted by both red tide and blue-green algae, but people shouldn’t confuse the two. Red tide is cause by a particular bacteria that is almost exclusively found in the Gulf of Mexico - Karenia brevis thrives in saltwater. In freshwater, however, there are blue-green algae - which could be any of thousands of species of cyanobacteria. Unfortunately, the extra heat of summer has churned up both this year, and people need to remember that they can be aerosolized and impact your breathing. Stay safe everyone!

Looking ahead:Next week, there will be a hotel employee or a restaurant worker that needs to get to an overnight shift. There will be an office worker stuck in traffic on I-95. There will be a single mother held up dropping her children off at school. The one cent sales surtax is degined to solve mobility issues. Our community needs to get behind this effort for the betterment of everyone in Broward County. Let’s #GoBroward!

Mary Riedel, president, Women in Distress Broward County

Last week: While the circumstances surrounding workplace harassment claims going back two decades are of great concern, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban stepped up with a $10 million donation to support groups advancing women in sports and focusing on domestic violence awareness and solutions. The team now has a woman as CEO, Cynthia Marshall.

Looking ahead:Women's issues are squaring taking center stage -- be it in the halls of Congress, at workplaces of all sizes and shapes and, importantly, in the voting booth as the midterms elections on Nov. 6 are fast approaching. To be silent is not an option.

Tracey Grossman, chairperson, Anti-Defamation League

Last week: Holocaust Survivor and Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said: “The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference.” We have seen and fought rising levels of bigotry these past few years. But – to take a comprehensive stand, we must also tackle indifference. To do so we have to understand each other better. Personal interactions help us understand and appreciate one another. On October 1st, as part of OneDay, neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and houses of worship, will come together to start conversations of understanding. Connected individuals can lead to strengthened communities. So sign up – and stand up! – at weareoneday.org.

Michael Udine, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: This week we learned the Coca Cola, one of the oldest and most admired American Corporations is exploring a partnership with cannabis makers to develop a health focused beverage aimed at easing inflammation, pain and the like. Other major corporations including Constellation Brands, Molson Coors and others are exploring different business options as well. When will the Federal Government step up and enact some common sense rules and regulations for the States that have authorized medical marijuana. The people want this. States are approving it. They are already late to the party. So what are they waiting for?

Looking ahead:As we see the scenes of the damages in the Carolinas from Hurricane Florence, some of the most heartbreaking are the abandoned pets. It should serve as an important reminder to prepare for our furry friends in the event of a storm. Broward has increased the number of pet friendly shelters around the county. The requirements and locations of our pet friendly shelters can be found at www.broward.org/hurricane. These shelters while important and available to your pets should be used as a last resort. It is always better to find a friend or family member outside the affected area.

Anna Fusco, president, Broward Teachers Union

Last week: The more progress we make the more we seem to go backward. A woman comes forward with allegations of sexual assault as a teenager at the hands of a now supreme court nominee and is questioned why it took 35 years. A male candidate brags about groping women inappropriately and is elected anyway. What kind of message are we sending today’s young people? Are we telling young women “it’s your fault” and “just keep quiet”? Are we telling young men “just do what you want, you’ll get by with it”? Are we returning to the stone age? I say “Hell, no!”

Lori Berman, Florida state senator

Looking ahead:The Legislature recently released the 2018 Long Range Financial Outlook predicting that the state would have excess funds of approximately $223.4 million for the 18-19 fiscal year. This analysis shifts indicators from a shortfall to an excess for 2019-20 but anticipates shortfalls in '20-21 and '21-22. Unfortunately, this analysis does not take into account the red tide and green algae, and DCF and DOC personnel shortages. There is also a long-standing crisis of underpaying teachers, causing good employees to leave the profession. The Legislature will have a lot to do this session to address these crises and balance the budget.

Steve Geller, former senator, Florida

Last week: If Ron DeSantis was more familiar with Florida, he might not have had his first ad say “From Dunedin to Tallahassee, I'll always to go to bat for Florida.” The area between Dunedin and Tallahassee is mostly in the area of Florida called the “Nature Coast,” and is the most unpopulated area of Florida. Less than 10% of Florida’s population lives here. I know that this isn’t what DeSantis meant, but it reinforces the impression that his only concerns have been with federal issues, and that he’s unfamiliar with Florida issues.

Looking ahead:We have become desensitized to President Trump’s outrageous actions, but we can’t overlook the pending declassification of classified documents about the Russia probe. In what can only be seen as a clear attempt to influence an investigation into himself, Trump is declassifying documents including FISA applications that facially threaten National Security by revealing “Sources and Methods.” Who anywhere in the world will be willing to risk their lives by helping U.S. intelligence now that it has become clear that for political purposes the confidential documents can be declassified? Trump also seems to be releasing documents to help his attorneys. Unconscionable!

Thomas Wenski, archbishop, Archdiocese of Miami

Last week: United States Secretary of State Michael Pompeo announced that the administration will set the Presidential Determination, the level of refugees allowed into the United States, at 30,000 refugees for 2019. This is the lowest number set in the history of the U.S. refugee admissions program which was formally created in 1980. Offering refuge to those fleeing violence, torture or religious persecution is a cornerstone of our history. We as a country are blessed with vast resources making us capable of securely welcoming those fleeing harm.

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

Last week: Over the past 11 years, women-owned businesses nationally increased in number by 4.5 million. The ratio of women-owned businesses to total businesses owned in the US increased much faster than the proportion of employment and revenue growth, which increased at an even greater rate during the past 11 years. According to a recent study, Florida is on the cutting edge for women owned business growth and South Florida is the biggest reason for that growth. There’s a wonderful support system here among businesses, government and educational institutions to encourage women entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead:The Affordable Care Act has driven many changes over the past five years in health care and insurance. Health systems are now focusing on prevention and keeping patients out of the ER. The health care landscape is changing rapidly to keep up with population growth, new technology, government rules and evolving patient preferences. Insurers, hospital chains and even retailers are no longer in traditional roles. Hospitals are getting into the insurance game while Insurers, along with drug stores, are delivering front-line health care. And consumers are reaping some of the benefits of this more completive landscape.

Scott Israel, sheriff, Broward County

Last week: A team of Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue personnel sprang into action at a moment’s notice to assist in the rescue efforts in South Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Florence. The team was deployed as part of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Florida Task Force 2 and was tasked with locating and helping people stranded due to the effects of the devastating hurricane. While on the ground, these brave men and women assisted in multiple rescues and no doubt helped save lives. They are heroes and reflect some of the very best of BSO. Twitter: @browardsheriff

Beam Furr, Broward County mayor

Last week: A major threshold was reached this week when cities representing over half of Broward County’s residents voted to be part of an interlocal agreement that stipulated how funds from the transportation enhancement surtax would be equitably distributed. This is a major step towards creating a true partnership on the shared issue of transportation. More cities are expected to approve the ILA in the coming weeks, bringing all municipalities in Broward on board. Voters in Broward County will cast their ballots on our transportation enhancement plan in just six weeks, so this is great news!

Looking ahead:Broward County students, now more than ever, have an easier way to access the resources of our libraries. The BCL Digital Direct Library Card is a dual-use, digital library card. The card permits student access on all online resources, databases, and learning programs of Broward libraries. 30,000 students have already registered for the card, and many more will sign-up as it becomes available to all Broward students this month. Having access to all BCL’s digital resources will open minds and expand the educational toolbox for our students. September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month. NOW is the time for students to sign-up!

Barbara Sharief, member, Broward County Commission

Looking ahead:Do you have your copy of Broward County’s @ Your Service Resident’s Guide? This booklet provides residents, businesses and visitors with comprehensive information on the services and programs provided by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners. In addition, valuable services provided by other local government officials and agencies is included. The guide is organized into four sections: Organization of Broward County Government, County Commission Services, Services of Other Officials and Agencies, and Broward County Municipalities. Get your copy to increase your awareness of the many facets of County Government and services. Contact Ms. Cynthia Martin at (954) 357-6991.

Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College

Last week: I was honored to join a distinguished group of elected officials at MDC last week to release the NAE Cities Index that shows how immigrant-friendly our large U.S. cities are. Pleased Miami and several Florida cities are on the list, and that MDC and these bipartisan leaders believe in helping new Americans integrate into our diverse society. Thank you, MDC alumna and Congresswoman Ros Lehtinen, State Representative Fernandez, Miami Mayor Suarez, County Commissioner Levine Cava and Doral Mayor Bermudez for your leadership on this important matter. We are a nation founded by immigrants. It’s what makes us a great.